Ocean Angels Extend Lead from Woodvale Site May 5, 2009

Ocean Angels Extend Lead from Woodvale Site

May 5, 2009

05 May 2009 15:26 BST

On day 16 of the Indian Ocean Rowing Race, the all female Ocean Angels crew in Boat No. 13 'Pura Vida', have extended their lead over second place boat, Boat No. 7 'Bexhill Trust Challenger', to 89 miles.

Whilst all crews are now clocking up good daily mileages, some have the ability to achieve greater 24 hour runs than others. In particular, the 8 man crew, Boat No. 88 'Aud Eamus', which left Geraldton nine days after the rest of the racing fleet aims to make boat speed and performance a priority. Their last 24 hour run saw the multi-national crew row an impressive 64 nautical miles but they say they have much more to give, in their bid to cross the Indian Ocean in the quickest possible time.

As Aud Eamus begin to row through the rest of the fleet, moving ahead of Pairs Class boat, Boat No. 6 'Flying Ferkins', the crew onboard Boat No. 5 'Rowing for Prostrate' attempt to make contact with Angela Madsen from the 8 man crew, for advice on how to solve the problem with their sliding seat rails. US acclaimed rowing coach, Angela experienced similar problems during her crossing of the Atlantic Ocean in 2007. If she is unable to provide the guys with a workable solution, Rowing for Prostrate hope that Angela will be able to give them some hints and tips on the technique of fixed seat rowing.

Elsewhere in the fleet, the only solo rower left in the race, Simon Prior from Boat No.3 'Old Mutual Endurance' has taken advantage of the flat calm conditions of the past 24 hours, to make some much needed repairs to his boat. However, repairs to the stanchions were halted almost as they begun, when Simon accidentally poured the entire contents of his emergency epoxy putty over the side and down into the depths of the Indian Ocean.

As for the top pastime of the day, the crew of Boat 88 'Aud Eamus' have been amusing themselves by exposing their spotty derrieres to any passing vessels they come across. However, it's doubtful that anyone would ever notice their actions - probably just as well as their mooning is bound not to be a pretty sight and not for the faint hearted!